Coppin State University’s Trailblazing Energy Transformation
COPPIN STATE UNIVERSITY, MARYLAND
Coppin State University confronted several significant challenges on its path to energy transformation, including modernizing outdated infrastructure across 12 campus buildings, navigating the complexities of being the first to use Maryland’s Clean Energy Capital (MCAP) program, and ensuring that every upgrade delivered real, measurable savings. Coordinating large-scale improvements required strategic planning, innovative financing, and a commitment to exceeding energy savings goals.
5,866,526
TOTAL UPGRADES
110
EXCEEDED GUARANTEE IN YEAR ONE
730,419
YEAR ONE ACTUAL ENERGY SAVINGS
12
CAMPUS BUILDINGS RENOVATED
Innovative Solutions
Coppin State University partnered with Energy Systems Group through the Maryland Clean Energy Capital (MCAP) program to launch a campus-wide energy efficiency project, all financed through a Shared Energy Savings Agreement that ensures positive cash flow by basing payments on actual, guaranteed savings.
Retrofitted fluorescent fixtures to improve lighting efficiency and reduce maintenance costs.
Installed LED exit signs to lower energy use and enhance reliability
Added occupancy and photocell sensors to ensure lights operate only when needed
Upgraded exterior lighting to boost safety while cutting energy consumption
Adjusted classroom and laboratory light levels for optimal learning and energy savings
Installed vending misers and sensors on vending machines to reduce unnecessary power use
Upgraded kitchen hood controls to run exhaust systems only when required
Implemented variable volume pumping to match heating and cooling output to actual demand
Enhanced boiler controls for better efficiency and reduced fuel consumption
Installed new make-up air units (MAUs) for heat recovery and lower heating costs
Upgraded HVAC control systems for more precise and efficient temperature management
Introduced demand-controlled ventilation to adjust airflow based on occupancy and save energy
Implemented water conservation measures to decrease water usage and costs
Replaced water meters to improve consumption tracking and leak detection
Installed solar thermal systems to use renewable energy for water heating
Upgraded building envelopes to improve insulation and minimize energy loss
Comprehensive Campus Upgrades
Twelve campus buildings received major improvements, enhancing comfort, reliability, and operational efficiency.
SIGNIFICANT COST SAVINGS & EFFICIENCY
The project guarantees annual energy savings of more than $600,000, with actual savings exceeding projections and ensuring positive cash flow for the university.
Innovative, Debt-Neutral Financing
By using the Maryland Clean Energy Capital (MCAP) program’s Shared Energy Savings Agreement, Coppin financed the project without impacting its debt profile, setting a model for other institutions.
From the Client
“We are pleased to be the first University System of Maryland campus to participate in this unique financing program. This effort will not only allow us to reduce energy consumption but also create real energy savings. We look forward to beginning this process and providing an example for others to follow.”